“On 16 December 2003, after a series of tests, I was diagnosed with lung cancer.
It came as a shock. I had always considered myself healthy and active — that very morning, I’d gone for a swim at my local outdoor pool.
I rarely got ill, so when I coughed up a small spot of blood after brushing my teeth, I decided to see my GP. That simple decision may have saved my life.
I had lost my husband to lung cancer in 1976, but I knew things had changed since then. Treatments had advanced, and I tried to stay philosophical. What upset me most was telling my children. Breaking that kind of news, especially just before Christmas, was incredibly hard.
Surgery and Recovery
The very next morning, I met with a surgeon. Within weeks, I underwent surgery at the Cardiothoracic Centre, Liverpool NHS Trust, Broadgreen (now Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital), where doctors removed half of my left lung.
I consider myself extremely fortunate — I didn’t need any further treatment. My recovery went well, and I focused on rebuilding my strength and returning to the life I loved.
Living Well with Lung Cancer
Before my diagnosis, I had retired from my role as a social worker at Ormskirk Hospital. I kept active, swimming outdoors at least three times a week. Today, I still do — and I also go to the gym regularly.
I lead a happy, busy life surrounded by friends. I’m part of a walking group that covers five or six miles a couple of times each month — a wonderful way to stay healthy and catch up with everyone.
A Holistic Approach to Health
For many years, my family and I have used complementary therapies. I once trained as a homeopath and have relied on homeopathy for over two decades. I also have monthly reflexology sessions and regular massages — treatments I began long before my diagnosis and continue to this day.
An Active Role in My Community
Faith and community have always been important to me. I attend church regularly and currently serve as Chairman of our Parish Council.
As a mother of six and grandmother of nine, I have a large, lively family. Although they live some distance away, I visit often — and I’m always happy to babysit! Keeping busy keeps me happy.
Reflecting on the Journey
Around the fifth anniversary of my diagnosis, I visited Ness Botanical Gardens at the University of Liverpool. Walking through the gardens, I realised just how fortunate I’ve been.
Because I acted quickly on an unusual symptom, I was diagnosed early. The care and treatment I received were exceptional — I couldn’t have asked for better.
Sharing My Story to Help Others
“There Is Life After Lung Cancer”
Last year, I reached out to Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation to see how I could help others through my experience. Since then, I’ve supported several awareness campaigns, including Lung Cancer Awareness Month and the Look After Your Lungs study.
I’ve shared my story in newspaper interviews, a short film about recognising symptoms, and most recently, in a “Living with Lung Cancer” information DVD for the charity. My grandchildren find it very funny that their Gran has become such a public figure!
I’m delighted that by sharing my story, others may realise something I’ve learned firsthand — there is life after a lung cancer diagnosis.”